Komandoo Maldives has appointed Riccardo Rizzoli as its Executive Chef.

Originally from Piedmont in the north-west of Italy where gastronomy and oenology are taken seriously, Riccardo gained his first insights into the wonderful world of gastronomy at the early age of 12 when helping out at his father’s restaurant. There was no looking back for him; Riccardo wanted to become a chef himself. After his education in Genova, professional path led him from San Francisco and Sardinia to Milano, Maryland, Monte Carlo and Colombo, where he collaborated with the world’s oldest and largest gastronomic society, Chaîne des Rôtisseurs. He has been based in the Maldives the last nine years.

As a strong advocate of fresh, homegrown food, Riccardo makes full use of Komandoo’s greenhouse; basil, lemongrass, mint, spinach and rocket, along with other vegetables, herbs and spices are grown on the island.

Riccardo and his team’s culinary creations can be enjoyed at Aqua and Falhu restaurants, beach dinners and as in-villa service at Komandoo. Having already made several fantastic improvements to the Falhu buffet, he is working on a new menu for the overwater fine dining restaurant Aqua.

“It is with great pleasure that we introduce you to the resort’s new Executive Chef, Riccardo Rizzoli, whose passion for cuisine and excellent guest feedback are already a telltale sign of Komandoo further developing as a resort with outstanding dining,” an announcement by the resort read.

Located in Lhaviyani atoll, Komandoo offers 65 villas in three categories; 14 Beach Villas along the western beach of the island, 36 Jacuzzi Beach Villas on the eastern beach and a part on the western beach, 15 Jacuzzi Water Villas arching around the southern end of the island. Each of them is independent well-appointed villas spaced adequately to provide privacy.

Since first opening in 1998, the resort has provided its guests with a unique take on the Maldivian dream holiday with its quiet, adult-only vibe, understated luxury and excellent service. It has remained one of the country’s best-ranking resorts for romance and a firm favourite to anyone looking for an adults-only, small island getaway in the Maldives.